Bachelor in the Automotive Industry
The pilot project between Volkswagen Slovakia and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Slovak Technical University in Bratislava closely combines theory and practice. You do not only gain theoretical knowledge, but mainly practical experience. For the duration of your studies you will work directly at the Bratislava plant of Volkswagen Slovakia under the leadership of top experts. Volkswagen Slovakia guarantees you a job after you successfully complete your studies.
What is the difference between a standard bachelor’s degree and a Bachelor’s degree in the Automotive Industry?
While the standard bachelor’s degree takes three years, the Bachelor’s degree in the Automotive Industry takes four years including an exceptional length of practical experience directly in the company.
How can I apply?
The first step is to submit an application for the Bachelor’s study program Vehicles and Mobile Machinery at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Slovak Technical University in Bratislava. The second step is to fill in an application for a company scholarship from Volkswagen Slovakia, which you can find below. The final condition for selection is the successful passing of the selection process at Volkswagen Slovakia.
What is the form of study?
It is a full-time course. The first two years of the program are similar to the schedule of your other classmates, but you will work on specific tasks and projects at Volkswagen Slovakia during the summer holidays and for your entire third year. You return to university for your fourth year and can apply the knowledge you gained during your practical experience, for example when preparing your bachelor’s thesis.
Why does the course take four years?
As the Bachelor’s degree in the Automotive Industry places great emphasis on practice, you will work for the entire duration of the third year of the course on specific tasks and projects at Volkswagen Slovakia, just like an employee, with a mentor who takes responsibility for your tasks. You will gain immense experience and make contacts, which will definitely be important for your further development.
When do my studies start?
The pilot project starts in September. You will start like other students at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Slovak Technical University in Bratislava.
What is the ratio of practice and theory in the Bachelor in the Automotive Industry?
About half of the course is made up of practical experience at Volkswagen Slovakia. You will gain this during summer holidays and your entire third year. You can expect interesting work on concrete projects, thanks to which you will be able to use the knowledge gained during your studies. You will also acquire rich practical experience when you prepare your bachelor’s thesis directly at Volkswagen Slovakia.
Where will I work during my third year?
During the course of your one-year practical experience at Volkswagen Slovakia, you will have the opportunity to familiarize yourself with different units in the Bratislava plant, for example the pilot hall, assembly, quality management, etc. Apart from this you will be able to participate in different courses at the Dual Academy (see the links on the right).
Can I prepare my bachelor’s thesis in cooperation with Volkswagen Slovakia?
The purpose of the pilot study program is precisely to combine theory and practice. We will be happy to find you a suitable consultant who is an expert in the field and from whom you will be able to learn a lot. It is up to you whether you decide to prepare your thesis at university or with your employer.
What is a company scholarship?
It is an amount which will be paid to you regularly. The basis of a company scholarship is a signed agreement with Volkswagen Slovakia, in which we guarantee you a job relevant to your field of study after you have completed your studies so that your future is linked to our company.
What does the selection process for a company scholarship from Volkswagen Slovakia incorporate?
You will complete a skills test, a mathematics test and have a personal interview.
What is the amount of the scholarship?
During the first and second years of study you will receive a scholarship of EUR 100 to 150, depending on your study results. During your third year you will work for Volkswagen Slovakia for a gross remuneration of EUR 868. During your fourth year, you will receive EUR 130 to 180 more depending on your study results. During your summer practical experience, a further EUR 200 will be added to your scholarship.
How often is the scholarship paid out?
Every month, regardless of whether you are doing practical work with us or not. The scholarship is transferred to your account.
What opportunities open up for me after I successfully complete my studies?
We guarantee a job at Volkswagen Slovakia for the best. Our aim is for you to find out what interests you the most and where you see your future during your third year, when you spend the entire year with us.
Who can I contact with further questions?
If you have any questions, please contact our program coordinator, Veronika Hanulova: veronika.hanulova@volkswagen.sk. For quicker communication, include your phone number in the email.
» Form - Application for Volkswagen Slovakia company scholarship (PDF)